Mr. ALFRED T. DAVIESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the new Spanish Customs dues on agricultural machinery which, particularly as regards portable steam engines, are an enormous advance on the former dues; whether he is aware that such increased dues renders it practically impossible for British firms to export portable steam engines and agricultural machinery to Spain; whether the Board has protested or has considered the question with a view to protesting to the Spanish Government for a modification of these new Customs dues; whether, in the event of a refusal to modify these abnormal dues in favour of British manufacturers of portable steam engines and agricultural machinery, it is proposed as a reprisal to increase the Customs duties on all goods which Spain may export to this country; and, if not, what are the reasons for taking no action in a matter vitally affecting these important home industries?
§ Mr. BALDWINMy attention has been drawn to the matters referred to by the hon. Member. His Majesty's Government are at present in communication with the Spanish Government in regard to the effect of the new Spanish tariff on British trade. It is not possible for me to say at present what action His Majesty's Government may take should these communications not lead to a satisfactory result.